Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 25, 2026

Targeting Gray Rami Communicantes in Selective Chemical Lumbar Sympathectomy
Published on: January 10, 2019
Endoscopic ultrasound-guided (neurolytic) celiac plexus block
1Gastroenterology Division, Medical College of Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23298-0711, USA. mabedi@hsc.vcu.edu
Abstract:
Celiac plexus neurolysis is an established technique for relieving pain in cancers of the upper abdomen. This article reviews the novel technique of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided neurolytic celiac plexus block. This recently described procedure is a therapeutic extension of curvilinear array endosonographic fine needle aspiration. The indications, patient preparation, and technical aspects of the procedure are described in detail. The potential complications are mentioned and the results of the published studies are reviewed. We believe that where the expertise is available, this procedure can be integrated into the diagnostic EUS of patients with inoperable upper abdominal malignancy. As such, this would be the safest and most cost-effective approach for celiac plexus neurolysis in these patients. The role of EUS-guided celiac plexus block in patients with chronic pancreatitis may be emerging and needs further study.
Related Concept Videos
Spinal Nerves: Plexus I
The Cervical Plexus
The cervical plexus, formed by the anterior rami of the first four...
Nerve Supply of the GI Tract
The enteric nervous system consists of two major plexuses: the myenteric plexus (Auerbach's plexus) and the submucosal plexus (Meissner's plexus). These plexuses are located within the layers of the GI tract...
Endoscopic Procedures V: ERCP
Patient...

